Clarinet

100 Life Lessons I Learned From Music

In honor of my 100th blog post, I thought it would be nice to share with you 100 life lessons that I have learned from music.

My decision to begin playing the clarinet at age 10 was innocuous enough – band sounded much more fun than gym, and most of my friends were joining band. I had no idea that music would become my chosen profession.

Music has taken me around the world, and along the way, I’ve had the amazing opportunity to meet new people and experience other cultures. My clarinet has allowed me to live in Paris – the city of my dreams – for the past two years. I’ve made lifelong friends from around the world through music, and I’ve had so many incredible opportunities as a musician.

Music has taught me a lot. I’ve learned how to circular breathe; the importance of subdivision; the differences between the French and American clarinet schools; and countless other lessons along the way.

Most of the lessons I’ve learned along the way are not just specific to musicians. Music teaches you so much about life, culture, and interpersonal relations. Here are 100 life lessons I’ve learned from music:

Listen to others.

When the going gets tough, take deeper breaths.

Analysis leads to paralysis.

If you’re early, you’re on time. If you’re on time, you’re late. If you’re late, you’re dead.

Great things are created when you work together.

Brush your teeth after every meal.

Nerves are normal. Nerves mean you care about something and want to do your best.

Practice proper posture.

Eye contact = effective communication

Imitation is NOT the greatest form of flattery.

The rate of failure is high, and the rate of success is low – persevere.

Learn to practice mental resilience.

Believe in yourself.

First impressions matter.

You are not in competition with everyone else in the world.

“Practice and hope, but never hope more than you practice.” Kalmen Opperman

Success is 90% hard work and 10% luck.

Learn how to accept compliments graciously.

Geeks and nerds are just people that found their passion at a young age.